How to Register on PICME and Get a Birth Certificate?

Welcoming a new baby into the world is an exciting and busy time. Amidst all the preparations, navigating government processes can feel overwhelming. If you're an expectant parent in Tamil Nadu, understanding the PICME system is one of the most important steps you'll take.

PICME, which stands for Pregnancy and Infant Cohort Monitoring and Evaluation, is a comprehensive digital initiative by the Tamil Nadu government. Its primary goal is to ensure that every pregnant woman and newborn in the state receives continuous and high-quality healthcare, along with access to crucial government benefits.

This blog post will walk you through everything you need to know about the PICME process, from initial registration to obtaining your baby's birth certificate with ease.

What is PICME and Why is It Important?

Launched by the Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, the PICME system is designed to track a mother's health from the moment of pregnancy detection until the child is up to five years old. It helps the government monitor maternal and child health indicators in real-time, allowing for timely interventions and medical support.

Here’s why PICME registration is not just helpful, but essential for every expectant mother in Tamil Nadu:

• Continuous Healthcare Support: Registering on PICME ensures that you receive regular medical check-ups, vaccinations, and proper antenatal care through your assigned Village Health Nurse (VHN) or Urban Health Nurse (UHN).

• Access to Financial Benefits: Registration is mandatory to avail of welfare schemes, most notably the Dr. Muthulakshmi Reddy Maternity Benefit Scheme, which provides financial assistance to eligible mothers.

• Simplified Birth Certificate Process: The PICME number, also known as the RCH ID (Reproductive and Child Health ID), is a 12-digit unique identifier that is directly linked to your baby’s birth registration. This streamlines the entire process, making it much easier to get the birth certificate after delivery.

How to Register on PICME: A Step-by-Step Guide

The PICME registration process is designed to be as simple and accessible as possible. You have a few options to register, including online, offline, or with the help of a health worker.

Online Pre-Registration by Public

This is the most convenient method for many. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Visit the Official Portal: Go to the official PICME website, which is maintained by the Tamil Nadu government.

2. Select 'Pre-registration by Public': On the homepage, you will find an option specifically for the public to begin their registration.

3. Fill in Your Details: Enter the required information accurately. This typically includes your full name, residential address, district, mobile number, and the expected date of delivery.

4. Submit and Receive Your PICME Number: After submitting the form, you will receive a 12-digit PICME number or RCH ID via SMS on your registered mobile number. This number is crucial for all future tracking and services.

Offline Registration with a Health Worker

If you prefer offline registration or require assistance, you can:

1. Contact Your Local Health Worker: Get in touch with your Village Health Nurse (VHN) or Urban Health Nurse (UHN). They can register you on the spot using their tablet or computer.

2. Visit a Government Health Center: You can also visit your nearest Primary Health Centre (PHC) or a government hospital, where a healthcare official will help you with the registration process.

3. Go to an e-Seva Centre: These common service centers are also equipped to assist you with your PICME registration.

The health worker will also help you with the final verification of your documents and finalize the registration, making you eligible for all the benefits.

Documents Required for PICME Registration

While the initial online pre-registration requires minimal information, you will need to have a few documents ready for verification by the health worker. These may include:

• Aadhaar Card

• Voter ID or other proof of residence

• Marriage Certificate

• A recent pregnancy confirmation slip from a doctor

• Bank passbook (for availing financial benefits)

The Link to Your Birth Certificate

One of the most significant advantages of PICME registration is how it simplifies the process of obtaining a birth certificate.

1. Post-Delivery Notification: After your baby is born in a hospital, the hospital administration is responsible for registering the birth with the local municipal authority. They will use the 12-digit PICME number you provided to link the birth to your existing record.

2. Verification and Application: Your PICME number serves as a key identifier, automatically populating a significant portion of the birth registration details.

3. Birth Certificate Download: Once the birth is officially registered, you can download the birth certificate online from the official Birth and Death Registration portal for Tamil Nadu. You'll typically need to enter details like the baby's date and place of birth, and your PICME number, to retrieve the document.

Checking Your PICME Registration Status

You can easily check the status of your PICME application online by visiting the official portal and using your 12-digit number. This allows you to track the progress of your registration and see if any action is required from your side.

In conclusion, PICME is a revolutionary government initiative that has made a profound impact on maternal and child healthcare in Tamil Nadu. By registering early, you can ensure a safer, healthier pregnancy journey and a smoother administrative process for your newborn.